AP: Writing a Definition

In AP history classes, you may be required to write a Definition of a term. If you remember how you do it in normal classes, you may think that this will be a breeze. But in AP World, it isn't this simple: teachers want an example of a college definition. So, what IS the difference? In this post, you'll see examples of good and bad definitions, and what makes one better than the other. Even though you don't need to write one for the exam, this can be important for the entire year, to not only show your teacher your progress, but to also begin to understand the subject of history.

There are many ways to write definitions, but sometimes students do't know where to start. In AP, a definition usually requires different effort than in normal classes. For instance, it calls for important facts involving the term, a timeline of events (from beginning to middle to end), who/when/where the term affects,and other relevant information. AP teachers usually want you to write these in about 3 to 5 sentences, to minimize irrelevance and "fluffy" language. If you can keep the term short, sweet and to the point, it demonstrates how you already are understanding the content material.

Here is an example of a "bad" AP definition:

"Agriculture began around 9000 B.C.E as hunting and gathering societies began to settle and become more permanent. It involved domesticating plants like wheat, lentils and rice and animals like sheep, pigs and cattle for work and food. It emerged independently in areas such as the Fertile Crescent, China, Mesoamerica, and Africa."

If you couldn't tell, the term for this definition is Agriculture. You may be wondering why this is a bad definition. If you use the guidelines I listed above, you can see that it only covers partial requirements. It mentions the where, but not a specific who (hunting and gathering societies are too vague of terms) and a little bit of what (the plants and animals are alright, but what else was there?). The time period is mentioned, but there isn't an example of the middle or end (in this case, agriculture didn't end, so that's okay). Finally, it may be spread out over 3 sentences, but these could all be combined into one sentence to give the background of the term; more relevant information could then come in the next sentences. In a normal class, this definition would be acceptable, but in AP, it only shows a crude understanding of what the course expects.

Now, here is an example of a "good" definition:

"The Germanic Tribes were invaders of the Roman Empire who grew into Kingdoms and replaced the Empire after the last Roman Emperor was overthrown in 476 C.E.  These tribes included the Visigoths, who took most of Spain, the Lombards, who established territory in Italy after the defeat of the Ostrogoths by Justinian, and the Franks, who were located in most of France and part of Germany.  Originally a smaller power, the Franks grew under the leadership of Charlemagne, who conquered much of Western Europe and established the Carolingian Empire in 800 C.E.  Due to familial disputes and invasions by the Muslims, Vikings, and the Huns, however, this Empire declined and eventually dissolved in 843 C.E."

Can you see the difference in this definition? The term here is Germanic Tribes, and it hits most if not all of the requirements for AP definitions. The who, what, and where are clearly mentioned, with a beginning, middle, and end (476 C.E-843 C.E.). The first sentence provides the basic information, while the second and third provide some more important/relevant information that demonstrates understanding of the material. The fourth sentence helps bookend the end of the Carolingian Empire, and thus the Germanic Tribes as a whole. While it may be missing some more detailed explanation, it is quick and clear while also giving enough information for the reader to comprehend the subject. Basically, it clearly defines the term, and would be acceptable to turn in as homework.

It's all about specifics in definitions. If you aren't specific enough, you'll lose understanding, but if you're too specific, it'll be harder to understand. By following the guidelines for AP definitions, you'll be able to write them in no time, and without even thinking twice about the steps needed. Take it from a person with experience!

-Pharaoh Noh-Tyep